Thursday, February 17, 2011

The court-appointed attorney of Harvey Updyke, the man accused of poisoning Toomer's Corner oak trees, has moved to withdraw as counsel on the case.

Philip Tyler filed a motion in the District Court of Lee County on Thursday to be taken off the case, citing a "clear conflict" of interest.

Tyler's law firm currently represents Auburn University, the victim in the case. The motion also said Tyler was a former part-time professor at Auburn University and, as a resident in the city since 1988, has "numerous personal and family ties" to the school.

Updyke has been charged with criminal mischief, a Class C feloney, in relation to the tree poisonings but could face additional federal charges. He is being held on $50,000 bond.

What about damages from civil suits? Has that been considered yet from the thousands of fans who loose enjoyment of the trees? A class action lawsuit could keep the man in debt forever and any monies actually collected could be donated to the restoration/remediation/replacement effort?

How many SEC games will the Auburn men's basketball team win next year?

Buy our book: "All In: Auburn's Run for the National Championship"

The Ledger-Enquirer has put out a commemorative book on the Tigers' BCS championship season titled: "All In: Auburn's Run for the National Championship."

The 160-page soft cover book has my articles about the Tigers from the start of the season. It is a normal magazine size with color pages and will be printed on picture book stock.You can purchase one online here. It's only $19.95 (plus shipping and handling). You can also call 1-888-600-7816 or 1-888-806-0918 to order.